Missouri Craft Distilleries Add $150M to State Economy

A growing wave of craft distilleries is bringing new life to Missouri communities, from big cities to small towns that rarely saw tourists before.

Rocheport Distilling Company opened in November in a town of just 250 people, joining 55 craft distilleries now operating statewide. The vineyard owners decided expanding into bourbon, rye, and gin felt like a natural next step.

The numbers tell an encouraging story. University of Missouri Extension reports that craft distilling now contributes more than $150 million annually to Missouri's economy while supporting over 1,400 jobs across the state.

"There are a few popping up every year," said Dean Volenberg, an extension assistant professor for plant sciences at MU. "It is a growing trend here in Missouri."

The benefits reach far beyond the distillery doors. These businesses support Missouri agriculture, forestry, tourism, and hospitality industries all at once.

Missouri also leads the nation in producing white oak barrels, a crucial component for whiskey and bourbon makers. When distilleries thrive, barrel makers, grain farmers, and dozens of other businesses grow alongside them.

"It's a circular helping economically around the state," Volenberg explained. "It's positive for everybody."

The Ripple Effect

Consumer habits are shifting in ways that help small distilleries succeed. More people want classic cocktails and ready-to-drink beverages made with local ingredients, turning production sites into destinations worth visiting.

Rural distilleries can compete with big producers by giving visitors a complete experience. When someone travels to Rocheport for the distillery, they often spend hours exploring shops, restaurants, and nearby attractions.

"Being able to grow that distilling world here in Missouri will help us moving forward to have people come and visit lots of distilleries, just like they do wineries," said Christina Kelley, Rocheport Distillery's marketing director.

The Missouri Craft Distillers Guild created the Missouri Spirits Expedition, a trail connecting small-batch distilleries across the state. The trail helps tourists discover hidden gems they might never have found otherwise.

Towns that once struggled to attract visitors now have year-round traffic, and MU Extension projects the industry will keep expanding as demand for local products grows.